Get Inspired

Pink Floyd, Disney and Siouxsie and the Banshees have all written songs about them and if you grew up watching The Wizard of OZ or remember Jon Pertwee's endearing characterization of Worzel Gummidge in the late 1970s, then it's probably not surprising that you have a soft spot for scarecrows.

If you've been inspired by your visit to the village today why not have a go at making your own scarecrow for your garden or allotment?

Apparently it's all very straightforward! All you need is:

• 1 stake about 6ft (2m) long
• 1 stake about 3ft (1m) long
• 1 stake about 12inches (30cm) long
• Some old clothes
• A pair of tights or a pillow case
• Some straw or other filling
• Some string and/or wire

First you need to make the frame for your scarecrow. Tie the 3ft stake to the long one about 12 inches down from the top to make a cross shape. Then tie the other stake about half way down.

To make the head, fill a pillowcase or the leg of a pair of tights with straw and fashion it into a round shape. Tie the end with string and secure the 'head' to the top of your frame. Paint, draw or sew on some facial features.

Get your old clothes and stuff with straw. Place the shirt on the short cross piece and secure. Pull one leg of a pair of trousers onto the long stake - the other leg will hang alongside it.

Secure the waist of the trousers to the pole with some string or a belt, add a jaunty hat with some straw hair and you have your very own rustic masterpiece!

If you wish your scarecrow to survive the elements for a season or two then try sealing the straw stuffing inside 2 waterproof layers and use plenty of wire to stop your scarecrow falling apart when it's windy.

Then place your scarecrow in a prominent position where it'll be something of a conversation piece amongst your neighbours and visitors!

Here's a link to SCARECROWLAND where you may get some ideas.